Description
Enter the enchanting world of Kashmir with every sip of the Kashmiri Pink Delight Tea, a traditional brew known for its unique color and exquisite flavor blend. This recipe adds a delightful twist to the classic Kashmiri Pink Chai, which is not only a treat to the palate but also a feast for the eyes. Ideal for different moments, from a relaxing afternoon to an intimate evening, this tea blends cultural heritage with the comforting warmth of spices and the richness of milk.
Ingredients
- 4 cups Water
- 2 tbsp Kashmiri/Himalayan green tea or other green tea
- 1/2 tsp Baking soda
- 1-2 Star anise
- 2 Cardamom pods, crushed
- 1 Cinnamon stick
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 2 cups Whole milk
- Sugar or honey to taste
- Crushed nuts like almonds or pistachios for garnish (optional)
Step-by-step Directions
Step 1
Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan. Add the green tea leaves and let it boil for about 5 minutes.
Step 2
Add 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. You will see the water change to a deep red color. Continue to boil for another 2 minutes.
Step 3
Introduce the star anise, crushed cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick to the boiling mixture. Allow it to boil for another minute.
Step 4
Reduce the heat and let the tea simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, or until the liquid reduces to about half its volume, intensifying the beverage’s flavor and color.
Step 5
Stir in a quarter teaspoon of salt and mix well.
Step 6
Add the whole milk and increase the heat, bringing the mixture to a boil. Stir constantly to prevent the milk from scorching. As the milk boils, the tea will begin to turn pink.
Step 7
Once the tea achieves a beautiful pink color, remove it from the heat. Strain the tea into cups to eliminate the spices and tea leaves.
Step 8
Sweeten with sugar or honey to taste. Garnish with crushed nuts if desired.
Servings & Preparation/Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. The total preparation and cooking time is about 50 minutes to 1 hour, ensuring all flavors blend thoroughly and the tea reaches the desired consistency and hue.
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Allow the tea to come to room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. It can be kept for up to 2 days.
- When reheating, gently warm the tea over low heat to retain its delicate flavors and pink color. Avoid microwave use, as it can unevenly heat the tea.
- If the tea has thickened during storage, a small amount of milk or water can be added during reheating to adjust consistency.
Conclusion
The Kashmiri Pink Delight Tea is a wonderful adaptation of the classic Kashmiri beverage that plays an integral role in the local cuisine’s heritage. With its rich flavors of green tea, spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and star anise, and the distinctive pink color, this tea is a heartwarming choice suitable for any part of the day. Whether served as a warming drink during winter or a unique offering at a gathering, it promises a charming experience that captures the essence of Kashmiri tradition.
PrintKashmiri Pink Delight Tea
- Total Time: 50 minutes to 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Enter the enchanting world of Kashmir with every sip of the Kashmiri Pink Delight Tea, a traditional brew known for its unique color and exquisite flavor blend. This recipe adds a delightful twist to the classic Kashmiri Pink Chai, which is not only a treat to the palate but also a feast for the eyes. Ideal for different moments, from a relaxing afternoon to an intimate evening, this tea blends cultural heritage with the comforting warmth of spices and the richness of milk.
Ingredients
- 4 cups Water
- 2 tbsp Kashmiri/Himalayan green tea or other green tea
- 1/2 tsp Baking soda
- 1–2 Star anise
- 2 Cardamom pods, crushed
- 1 Cinnamon stick
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 2 cups Whole milk
- Sugar or honey to taste
- Crushed nuts like almonds or pistachios for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan. Add the green tea leaves and let it boil for about 5 minutes.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. You will see the water change to a deep red color. Continue to boil for another 2 minutes.
- Introduce the star anise, crushed cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick to the boiling mixture. Allow it to boil for another minute.
- Reduce the heat and let the tea simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, or until the liquid reduces to about half its volume, intensifying the beverage’s flavor and color.
- Stir in a quarter teaspoon of salt and mix well.
- Add the whole milk and increase the heat, bringing the mixture to a boil. Stir constantly to prevent the milk from scorching. As the milk boils, the tea will begin to turn pink.
- Once the tea achieves a beautiful pink color, remove it from the heat. Strain the tea into cups to eliminate the spices and tea leaves.
- Sweeten with sugar or honey to taste. Garnish with crushed nuts if desired.